Is It Time to Move?
Is It Time to Move?
I know I’m like many of you. I have lived in my house for over 25 years with plenty of equity, great neighbors and a great community. I’m still somewhat healthy, but the housing market offers little: properties are too old or overpriced.
So why should I want to move?
Recently I sold a couple of houses for my clients who decided to relocate, and more are on the way. It has motivated me to start getting my house in order and take my own advice- declutter. I’m sorting through my stuff: donate, sell, give to the kids, keep or trash. I told my family, made it public, I’m moving in 2 years, giving myself no excuse to procrastinate. Like many, I dread change, and the older I get, the worse it feels. But change is inevitable. I’m slow to adapt, so two years feels right. Others, like my clients, move faster. Either way, make the decision.
Why move now? Personal reasons aside, logic plays a role. I don’t want to burden my kids. Move while you can and have control of your decisions. You can decide what to ditch, keep, donate, sell, and give to the kids. At our age we realize whether or not it’s worth our time to sell or wait for the kids. The hardest part for us is that we hate to see anything go to waste but we must GET OVER IT.
Our kids don’t want our stuff-quality or not. Even sellable items are not worth the hassle or the money to go through the selling process and even if we did, we would be disappointed in people who still think $5 is too much for a used couch, so just donate all your stuff. The sooner you do it, your family will appreciate it. The older you get, the less likely you will move on your own terms.
So maybe it doesn’t make financial or logical sense but trust me, it will make sense in the future. The freedom you will have of not being burdened by the worry of your health declining (those steps are getting steeper every day) and relying on others. It will make sense because, if you buy right, you can “lock and leave” meaning you can take extended travel. It will make sense because you don’t have to ask for help to maintain the big house.
My goal is to sell in a couple of years, buy a small condo, definitely stay here where I love my community and friends and lower my tax burden. Many of you have a similar goal and if you are on the fence, let’s talk. Moving is not just about downsizing-it’s about peace of mind. Whether it’s a slow shift or a quick leap, the goal’s the same: freedom, control and a life that fits who we are now.
